Jeffrey Kent Garbett

Jeffrey Kent Garbett, 74, of Darby passed away Wednesday, May 20, 2020 in Hamilton, Montana. He was born on August 22, 1945 in Soda Springs, Idaho, and raised in Thatcher by his parents, the late Richard and Vernona Garbett. He was a competitive basketball player and track athlete at Grace High School. After high school he attended Dixie College in St. George, Utah. During his time at Dixie he was an extra in the film The Appaloosa starring Marlon Brando. Jeff graduated from Utah State University with a Masters of Education in Special Education. He taught Junior High History for many years in Bear Lake, Idaho and ran the Bear River Adult Skills Center in Brigham City, Utah. 

Jeff married Faye Shoemaker in 1981 and moved the family to Darby, Montana in November of 1989. Jeff taught Special Education, Title I and History at Darby Schools until his retirement in 2009. He also coached many students in High School track and field, Junior High basketball and Junior High football. He was a devoted educator for 42 years. 

    Jeff loved exploring the beauty of Montana and spent many years hiking and camping around the state with his family. He enjoyed many hobbies including hiking, camping, playing the drums and harmonica, reading, and journaling. He was a man who appreciated and enjoyed the simple things in life and little moments held the most meaning for him. Whether it was a hot mug of tea, a good book, a quiet moment by the river, a new adventure on a hiking trail, or sharing stories around the campfire with his family, he soaked up and treasured every moment. His kind soul and generous spirit will be sorely missed by those who loved him. 

    Jeff is survived by his wife Faye of Darby; his daughters Megan (Joshua) Styger and Heather Jones; his sons Seth (Kaylee) and Aaron Garbett; his brothers Rick (Kat) and Claude (Jane) Garbett; his sisters Candy Rindlisbaker, Renee (Danny) Smoot, and Bea (Kevin) Jasperson; and his two grandsons, Ethan and Drake Jones. 

    A private burial will be held with immediate family. A larger celebration of Jeff’s life will be held at a later date.

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